One last dance: Russell mulling retirement after 2024 T20 World Cup

West Indies all-rounder Andre Russell on Tuesday produced a man-of-the-match performance to lead his team to a 4-wicket victory over England at the Kensington Oval in Barbados.
Russell claimed figures of 3-19 from 4 overs, and hit 29 runs off 14 deliveries for the stellar all-round performance that marked an emphatic return to the West Indies set up.
“I love the start that I got: second over picking up an important wicket, you know, and then start to pull it back in the middle. I was excited to see all the guys there trying to make sure that all the plans that we discussed in the huddle came out; and, you know, it’s good to pull it back from a high-scoring game to 170,” the West Indian all-rounder said of his performance on Tuesday.
As he spoke during a post-match interview, Russel went on to share with media operatives how his return to the Men in Maroon set-up was streamlined by white ball Head Coach Daren Sammy.
“Actually, since CPL, Sammy mentioned once I do what I have to do in CPL, he will definitely mention my name in selection. And, you know, I had my fingers crossed, because, at the end of the day, I always want to play for West Indies,” Russell explained.
“Sometimes people might think it’s all about playing leagues and those things, but I tried to make sure I look after my body and make sure that when this call-up is here, I’m ready. I’ve been training hard and make sure that I eat properly and take care of myself. So, I was ready and excited for this call-up,” he added.
Quizzed about whether or not the 2024 ICC Men’s T20 World Cup would be his last, Russell admitted that he is considering retirement after the global showpiece, but said he would think twice if the team needs his services after.
The Jamaican cricketer divulged, “It all depends how the World Cup goes for me. To be honest, I still have a lot in the tank, but based on discussions with the coach, I told him that after World Cup I would walk away from international cricket; but if they need me, I will come out of retirement.
“But that’s the plan that I have. There are so many young talents here, all-rounders similar to myself; so, sometimes you realise you’re going into 36, you know, just give the youngsters the opportunity. If West Indies should still need me, I would be willing to put in the hard yards for them,” Russell went on to reveal.
The West Indies T20I Series against England continues today with the second match in the 5-match series bowling off in Grenada.